Three teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of a 17-year-old in Bedford.
A 17-year-old and two 18-year-olds have been arrested in connection with the death of Thomas Taylor.
Detectives from the Major Crime Unit made the arrests today as part of the investigation into the death of the 17-year-old, who died after being attacked in Greenhill Street at about 5.50pm.
A fourth person, a man in his 60s, was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender on Thursday and has been bailed pending further inquiries.
Detective Inspector Richard Stott, leading the investigation for the major crime unit, said: “This is an absolutely shocking incident in which a teenage boy has lost his life as a result of knife crime and serious youth violence.
“We want to reassure the wider community that officers are pursuing all lines of inquiry as well as carrying out increased patrols in the surrounding area.”
“We are continuing to appeal for anyone who was in the area at the time and may have witnessed the incident, or the lead-up to it.
“We are also keen to speak to anyone who knows those involved, and we would encourage you to make contact with us via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP).”
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Floral tributes near Greenhill Street, close to Bedford bus station, following the stabbing of Thomas Taylor
PA
Flowers were left near Greenhill Street after police confirmed Taylor had died. A message on one read: “You will be missed so much! From the whole gang.”
His mother Samantha Taylor paid tribute to the Bedford Academy pupil, saying he “brightened every room” he entered.
She told the BBC: “He was really looking forward to his future and we are all completely devastated. He was deeply caring and family-orientated and was a very intelligent boy. He brightened up any room he walked into he really cared about others and his life.”
His grandmother Mary Townsend said: “The pain is real. Parents and families need to take a good look at their sons and the company they keep. Don’t think it won’t happen to your sons, grandsons or family members. Something needs to change now. No more murders of children or anybody that’s affected by this knife crime. Enough is enough.”
Bedford Academy’s head teacher, Chris Deller, had earlier paid tribute to the pupil, describing him as “a popular, well-liked, and respected lad who finished Year 11 with a strong set of results, before going on to study at sixth form”.
Bedford’s elected mayor Tom Wootton said: “This is a truly tragic and senseless loss of a young life in the heart of our community. My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of the victim during this heartbreaking time.
“I strongly urge anyone who witnessed what happened or who may have information, no matter how small, to come forward and assist the police in their efforts.”
